Memory Retrieval How does it work RETRIEVAL memories

Memory Retrieval How does it work?

RETRIEVAL * memories are held in a storage of associations * each piece of info is connected * these connections serve as retrieval cues

Implicit and Explicit Memory Implicit memory: memory that can affect your behavior but which you did not deliberately learn Explicit memory: involves awareness

A memory is implicit if it can affect behavior or mental processes without being fully conscious. Explicit memories always involve consciousness during retrieval.

Whether memories are implicit or explicit, successful retrieval depends on how the memories were encoded and how they are cued.

Retrieval Cues * Accurate retrieval requires good cues. Retrieval cues: search terms to activate memory * Some memories are not easily cued. A good cue is one that depends on the type of memory being sought and the web of associations.

Priming * Psychologists have developed ways to “prime” implicit memories. * Providing cues that stimulate memories without awareness of the connection.

* Retrieval of explicit memories can be cued in two main ways. Recall: retrieval task in which you must create an answer almost entirely from memory with minimal cues. Recognition: identify whether a stimulus has been previously experienced.

Other Factors Affecting Retrieval * Alertness, stress, drugs, general knowledge * Encoding specificity: memory is encoded and stored with specific cues related to content. * The closer the cues match the form of encoding, the better it will be remembered.

Mood and Memory * Mood Congruent memory: memories that match a persons mood are retrieved.

Tip of Your Tongue * Most people experience this weekly * Most common with names and familiar objects. * Most likely due to interference. When one memory blocks retrieval. * Occurs during recall attempt, poor match between cues and encoding.